Female
leaders
and women in other positions of political authority
of independent states and
self-governing understate entities

1900-18 Regent Maharani Girraj Kaur of Bharatpur (India)

Acted for regent for her son, Shri Maharaja Sirurijendra Sawaikishnan
Singh (1898-1900-29), after her husband was deposed and exiled after
the murder of one of his personal servants. Her grandson was Maharaja
Brijendra (1918-28-95). She (d. 1922).

Around 1900Uleebalang and General
Pocut Baren Biheue in Aceh Barat
(Indonesia)

During the early war against the Dutch she had one of her legs
amputed. She was cured by the Dutch who reinstated her as an
Autonomous Ruler, Uleebalang. Lieutenant H. Scheurleer later reported
that she tried to create orderliness, security and prosperity under
Dutch authority. She lived (1880-1933)

.

1900-13 Ratu Petronella da Costa of Lidak (Indonesia)

Succeeded father, Alexander da
Costa, and abdicated in favour of her brother, Raja Josef da Costa
(also named Jozef da Costa or Siriman), who had succeeded their mother
Ratu Petronella da Costa as ruler of Djeniloe. Two other brothers were
also rajas: adopted Raja of Naitimoe and Raja of Fialarang. From 1913
the Dutch merged the small principalities together, because they
thought that fewer and bigger political entities would make it for
them to rule the area. So in 1914 Naitimoe, Lidak and
Djeniloe officially became the new federation Kakoelak Mesak, with
Raja Josef da Costa as Raja, and the following year he became ruler of
the Federation of the Northern Part of Belu.

A member of the Wattimena family,
she succeeded Opu Latu Weinand Wattimena, who ruled in 1900. She later
married Raja S.F. Pattiradjawane of Kariu at Island of Haruku.

Early
1900sReiging Okinka Juliana
of the Island of
Kanabak (Roxa) (Guinea Bissau)

The rules of succession
on the islands of Bubak, Rubane, Orango and Kanabak (Roxa) provide for
it being assumed on a temporary basis by a woman. In some recorded
cases women, whether the eldest daughters of an Olono who left no male
siblings, or widows, assumed their role as “queens” by succession or
election. If no suitable male successor could be found from within the
ruling matrilineage after the death of an olono, an “okinka” or
priestess already charged with the protection of the ancestral spirits
of the ruling matriclan could function as regent.

Also known as Sarkar Amman or Shah Jahan, she succeeded her mother,
Sikander Begum. She was a forceful ruler, and reformed the
administration of state. She attended the coronation of George V in
1911 dressed in a burqa with her awards worn on the outside. During
the trip, she visited Paris, a spa in Bad Nauenheim in Germany, spent
a week in Génève and travelled by the Orient Express to Istanbul,
where she met the sultan-emperor, Mehmet Reshad. She also visited
Hungary, Italy and Egypt where she embarked on her return journey to a
Bhopal struck by plague. Later that year she attended the Imperial
Dunbar in Delhi.
She introduced free
compulsory primary education in 1918. Established an Executive and
Legislative Council 1922. A great reformer, like her mother and
grandmother, she reformed taxation, the army, police, the judiciary
and jails, expanded agriculture, and constructed extensive irrigation
and public works. She established an appointed state council and
legislative assembly, and instigated elections for municipalities.
However, her main legacy is public health, by pioneering widespread
inoculation and vaccination programmes, improving sanitation, hygiene
and the water supply.
In 1926 she returned to London to settle the rules of succession in a
British court. She abdicated in favour of son while still in London,
and after some further legal conundrum, her granddaughter, Abida, was
declared heir apparent. Sultan Jahan argued in favour of the rights of
the firstborn, regardless of gender.
The peaceful rule of
Begums led to the rise of a unique mixed culture in Bhopal. The Hindus
were given important administrative positions in the state. This led
to communal peace and a cosmopolitan culture took its roots.
After her abdication, she became an advocate of women’s rights, and in
1928 she discarded purdah, and lived (1858-1930).

Adopted
into the Royal House of Travancore by her maternal grandaunt in 1900
(See 1857).
In 1924, she became Regent for her infant nephew and was granted the
style of Highness and title of Maharani.
She abolished animal
sacrifice, replaced the matrilineal system of inheritance with the
patrilineal one, and was known for making Travancore a progressive
state. Married
to M.R.Ry. Rama Varma Avargal, Valia Koil Tampuran, and was
mother of 2 daughters. She lived (1895-1985).

Sister of Rani Setu Lakshmi Bai and granted the personal title of
Maharani in 1924 with the style of Her Highness, from 1933. She
was Pro-Chancellor of. Travancore University and married to M.R.Ry.
Ravi Varma Avargal, Kochu Koil Tampuran. Mother of 4 sons and 1
daughter, and lived (1896-1983).

1901-05 Possible
Member of the Council of Regency H.H. Sri Pundrikganeshpuri MaharaniHabans Kaur Sahiba of Dholpur (India)

When her husband, Maharajadhiraja Sri Sawai Maharaj Rana Nihal Singh,
died a council of regency took over the reigns for her minor son,
Maharajadhiraja Sri Sawai Maharaj Rana Sir Ram Singh Lokendra Bahadur
(1901-11), possibly with her as a member.

1901-27 Paramount
Chief Fangawa of Wanda (Sierra Leone)

Made chief when the
previsous office holder, Vonja, was arrested. She had been captured
from the Sandor Chiefdom by a contemporary warrior of Vonja's named
Kawahun. In 1972 Madam Suba Koiwa and Madam Jenneh Ndopei conteted
the chiefly elections, but a man was elected.

After 1903 Chief Muyelaansime of Nkokolo (Tanzania)

RUled in succession to
her brother, Mutitimia, who died 1903, and some time later
succeeded by his daughter, Chiefess Ng’endo.

1903-16 Head of the Sovereign Family Titular
Queen Laure-Therese I of Araucania and Patagonia (Chile-Argentina)

4th sovereign of the Kingdom founded
in 1860 by the Mapuche Indians in territory now occupied by Chile and
Argentina. The family was deported from Chile to France in 1863 where
it has lived since. On 6 Nov 1903, the Council of Regency met and
chose Georges Sénéchal de la Grange to be the new "king," but he
declined. From that date on, everything that has been written about
the succession is essentially a fabrication by Philippe Paul Alexandre
Henri Boiry (b. 1927), who currently claims to be Philippe I. His
account runs as follows: the sole heir, and hence successor, of
Antoine II was his daughter, Laure Thérèse Cros, veuve Bernard, who
"was" Queen Laure-Thérèse I from 6 Nov 1903 to her death 12 Mar 1916.
There is no documentation of her acting as Queen. Prince Philippe has
no children. Laure Therese lived (1856-1916).

1905-15 Makole I Raja of Tojo (Indonesia)

The Dutch named her RoE, and she was
also known as Indo di Salaso.

1905-08 Princess I Njilitimo Aru Baranti of Rapang (Indonesia)

Became ruler after the abdication of her younger brother, La Sadapotto
(1904-05), who was also ruler of Sidenreng. She abdicated in favour of
a relative, Princess Tanri.I Tanri.

1906-10 De-facto Regent Itegé Taytu Betul of Ethiopia

Crowned
Queen of Shewa in 1883 and became Itegé (Empress-Consort) of her
husband, emperor Menilek II. She acted as
regent during his illness. She was very powerful, but still
obtained her husband's authorization for her decisions. She was
removed by a coup d’etat in 1910, but remained influential. Born as
Walata Mikáel, she lived (1853-1918).

Successor of her father, Daeng Masiri of Sigi, the year after she had
followed her mother Yahasia as Regent-Ratu/Magau of Biromaru. I Tondai
abdicated in 1915 and the states of Biromaru and Sigi-Dolo merged. She
was succeeded by Magu Lamakarate, Datu Pamusu, the son of her sister,
Yolekodi, who was married to Magau Jayalangkara
van Tawaeli. Her successor was already ruler of Dolo.

1907-11 Rani Imbichi Adi-Raja Bibi of Cannanore (India)

Also known as Imbicchi Ali-Adi Raja Bibi, she succeeded brother,
Mohamed Ali-Adi Raja as head of the Arakkal dynasty. She was daughter
of Rani Hayashabe Adi Raja Bibi who reigned 1838-52 in
succession to her mother, Rani
Mariambe Adi Raja Bibi, who reigned (1819-38). In 1905 her
brother, under the heavy burden of debts to the Empire, agreed to
surrender sovereignty and control over Minicoy in the Maldive Islands.
He died before the formal transfer. And after an attempt to back
track, she finally signed over Minicoy to the Emperor Edward VII on 9
February 1909, backdated to 1 July 1905. Following this, Minicoy was
annexed to the District of Malabar. By she lost the city of
Kannur and the Cannanore Cantonment. By 1911 there was further decline
with loss of chenkol and udaval.

1907-1923/24 Pa Ariki Tetianui (Cook Islands)

Adopted by Pa Ariki Upoko Takau (Mere Pa), she succeeded her adopted
brother. She was married to Daniela Makea Vakatini. Since she had no
children she was succeeded by a representative of another line, that
of the current Pa Ariki. She lived (1867-1923/24)

1907-08 Interim Conservator and
Consular Agent Elisabeth Morilleau of the French Possessions in
Saint Helena

After the death of her husband, Lucien Morilleau, who was in office
1889-1907, she took over as head of the two sites that the Britis had
ceeded in 1858 related to the stay of ex-Emperor Napoléon I on the
Island - his recidence Longwood House and the Valley of the Tomb.

1907-30 Politically Influential QueenVictoria von Baden
of Sweden

Involved in the affairs of state during reign of husband, King Gustaf
V of Sweden (1858-1950), particularly 1911-14 when she acted as
liaison between the king and Premier Karl Staaff who did not speak to
each other. She was also the "Head" of the former reigning
Holstein-Gottorp-Vasa-family, mother of three sons, and lived
(1862-1930).

1907 Rebellion Leader Qiu Jin in China

Also known as Ch’iu Chin, she was one of the pioneers in the fight
against the monarchy. She was in exile in Japan until 1906, when she
returned to China and worked as a teacher and head mistress at a
school, and was busy building up her own army and was supposed to have
become leader of the uprising in Shanghai. But the uprising in the
other provinces failed, the Imperial Police caught up with her, she
was caught, tortured and executed as the first woman, and already in
her own time she was seen as a martyr. She lived (circa 1875-1907).

Dowager Empress Cixi entrusted a vaguely specified Imperial
authority to her and she became the holder of the Imperial Seal and
exercised the Imperial authority. In 1911 the regent and father of
Emperor Puyi (1906-1908-12-67), Prince Zaifeng, resigned. At 6.12.12
she presided over the final cabinet meeting of the Qing Dynasty and
was forced to sign the imperial abdication decree, which abolished the
monarchy. Long Yu was niece of Empress Cixi and the childless widow of
Emperor Zaitian. She lived (1868-1913).

Regent during the illness of her husband, Gand Duke Guillaume
(19.3.08-25.12.), and the minority of her daughter Grand-Duchess
Marie-Adelheide (25.2-14.6). She was born as Infanta of Portugal and
Princess of Bragança, mother of six daughters, and lived (1861-1942).

1908-15 President of the Council of Regency Mugabekazi Nidi
Ririkumutima of Burundi (Belgian Colony, Later Independent)
1915-17 Member of the Council of Regency

As Queen Mother (Mugabekazi) she was
regent for her stepson, Mutaga IV Mbikije (1903-08-15), and his son
Mwambutsa IV Bangiriceng (1912-15-66-77). Her full name was, Nidi
Ririkumutima Bizama hitanzimiza Mwezi, and she was probably murdered
in 1917. Since 1972 the Head of the Sovereign Family has been Crown
Princess Rose Paula Iribagiza of Burundi.

Elected as the successor of her mother, Madam Matolo, but her rule was
despotic ad therefore she was not re-elected as Paramount Chiefess in
1918. Perhaps chief of Kenema as well. 10 of Sierra Leone's 146
paramount chiefs were women in the period 1914-70.

1908-42 Princess I We Tanri of Rapang (Indonesia)
1940-42 Adatuwang Regnant of Sawito

Succeeded upon the abdication of her relative, Princess I Njilitimo
Aru Baranti, and was married to Prince Andi Madakelleng of Wajo. In
Sawito she succeeded her mother, I Ba Eda. She abdicated.

1908-circa 23 Possible Head of the Sovereign Family Mary Laguna
de Perlas of Mosquitos (Nicaragua)

Also Known as Princess Mary Clarence, she was daughter of the last
king of the Mosquito Indians, Robert Henry Clarence. The area was in
independent kingdom 1661-1861 when it became a Nicaraguan reservation
and in 1894 it was incorporated in Nicaragua, and her father abdicated
he was Hereditary Chief of Mosquito (1873-91-94-1908), who was deposed
twice in 1894. He was son of Princess Victoria, Sister of Inez Ana
Frederic and Henry Clarence, a Miskito Indian. In the same period
another relative, her father's cousin, Robert Frederick also seems to
have been the Heir Apparent to the Headship of the house. Mother of a
son with an unknown husband, Morton Laguna de Perlas, perhaps the same
as Norton Cuthbert Clarence, who was mentioned as head of the house in
1977.

1908-09 and 1911-13 Politically Influential First Lady Nellie
Herron Taft, United State of America

Already influential during her husband's tenure as Commissioner and
Governor General to the Philippines 1899-1904. 1904 her husband became
Secretary of War and in 1908 he was elected President. Because she
strived so diligently in the role of First Lady, she took on too many
projects at the same time. In mid-May 1909, she suffered a major
stroke while on the presidential yacht, paralyzing her left side and
leaving her unable to speak, and her daughter and sisters took over
her duties. By 1911 she was back in control. She was very versed in
politics, often sitting in on important political discussions and
accompanying William on political trips and golf outings. Her husband
was Chief Justice from 1921 until his death in 1930, and she spend the
rest of her life travelling in Europe, and lived (1861-1943)

Her name meant "Queen of the World".
She was married to her cousin Mohammad Ali Shah who reigned 1907-09
until he was deposed. She was a strong presence, and she was about to
reclaim the throne of Persia for her son Soltan Ahmad Shah,
(1898-1909-25-30), after he was deposed, but events had conspired
against her. Went with her family into exile in Rome, and lived
(1875-?).

Until before 1909 Aru Kabe af Alla (or Tobango) (Indonesia)

Head of
a Buginese principality Sulawesi. She was the daughter of a brother
of two previous male rulers: Aru Patta Mataelo and his successor Aru
Mangke. She was succeeded by the son of her sister, Aru I Lorong, who
was already ruling for sure in 1909 and died in 1913.

Around 1909 High Chiefess Te-ha'apapa III of Huahine (Tahiti in
French Polynesia)

Daughter of Te-ha'apapa II, and proclaimed High Chiefess after the
death of her brother, Marama Teri'i-fa'atau.

Also known as Kanjimpa, she succeeded her father Bankajapa, abolished
slavery, extended women’s rights, and brought reunification to the
Orango Grande islands. She was greatly loved by the Bijagos and
respected by the Portuguese colonisers during the war of pacification
to subjugate the native tribes. It was she who reached a peace
agreement. (d. 1930).

1910-1926 Datuk I Pancaitana Aru Pancana of Tanette (Indonesia)

Successor of another woman, Datuk We Tan-ri-Olle, who ascended to the
throne in 1855. I Pancaitana was followed by yet another woman, I
Pateka Tana, who was ruler for one year.

She surfaces repeatedly in both oral and archival
sources as a key participant at the centre of major events in the
chiefdom. She stood by her son, Chief Molefi of the Kgafela in spite
of his troubles with the colonial administrators and frivolous
behaviour (drunkenness and womanising). None the less he treated her
badly and hated her newfound religion – the Zion Christian Church
(ZCC) – for its strict lifestyle code and condemnation of ‘sinful’
living, and he had her and the other members publicly flogged at the
kgotla and then driven off from the chiefdom. She lived (1883-1967).

1910 General Cut
Nyak Meutia in North Aceh (Indonesia)

Also known as Cut Meutia she joined her second husband,
Cut Muhammad or Teuku Cik Tunong, in the fight against the Dutch, he
was made District Chief until he was imprisoned and shot in 1905 and
after his successor was killed in the battle in 1910, she became the
new commander with only 45 men 13 guns left, but was shot herself soon
after. She lived (1870-1910).

Also known as Ratna Divyeshwari Devi, she became regent after the
death of her husband,
Prithivi Bir Bikram Shah Deva (1875-81-1911), for her stepson,
Tibhubana (1906-11-55). At the time, however, the position of monarch
was mainly titular, with real power in the country residing in the
powerful, conservative Rana family, which supplied the country with
its hereditary prime minister. And tensions between the royal family
and the Ranas came to a head during World War I. The Ranas wanted to
join the war in support of Britain, which controlled India to the
south. She, however, supported the army, which wanted to remain
neutral. To win the military's support, the prime minister, Chandra
Shumshere Rana, blackmailed the young king into ordering the troops to
go to war by holding a gun to his mother's head and threatening to
kill her if he did not follow his orders. Over the following years,
the king was kept a prisoner in the palace and blackmailed into
following the Rana's whims, which included suppressing any attempts at
modernization and democratization.
She was born as Princess from Rajputana or Kangra. Born as a Rajput
princess from Kangra in Punjab, and lived (1878-1926).

1911-19 De facto-Ruler Khanum Dondogulam of Mongolia

Influential during the reign of her husbandthe 8th living
Buddha, Jabzandamba Hutagt Bogd Gegeen Ezen Haan (1869-1924),
who declared independence from China in 1911. From 1911 real power lay
in the hand of Baron Roman Fyodorovich von Ungern (1886-1921) on the
one hand and the Chinese governor on the other. Her husband was in
office 1911-20 and 1921-24 when the monarchy was abolished. He was the
last Holy-King (Bogd Haan) or
reincarnated lama ruler.

During times of intrigue and political
instability she was the hand of stability during the reign of her
husband Kgosi Sechele II (1875-1911-18). She was also the pillar of
stability during the reign of her son, Kgosi Kgari I (1931-62) who
came to the throne after his brother, Kgosi Sebele II (1918-31), was
ousted by the colonial administration and exiled to Ghazi in
1931.

1911-14 Rebellion Leader Me Katilili of the Giriama Tribe in
Kenya

Leader of a rebellion against the British, and lived (1841-1920s).

1912-19 H.R.H.
Marie-Adélheïde, By the Grace of God Grande Duchess of
Luxembourg, Duchess of Nassau, Countess-Palatine and
Electress of the Rhine, Countess of Sayn, Hadenburg,
Königstein, Krazenborgen and Dietz, Burgravine of Hammerstein,
Dame of Mahlberg, Wiesbaden, Idstein, Merenberg, Limburg and
Eppstein (25.02-14.01)

Marie-Adelheide first
reigned under the regency of her mother Anna Maria da Bragança, who
had been in charge since 1908 during her father's illness. In 1914,
German troops invaded, in the face of protests from the
Grand Duchess and her government. However, the occupation had
little effect on the day-to-day government. She saw the death of the
Prime Minister, Paul Eyschenin in 1915 as an opportunity to become
more involved in the political affairs of the Grand Duchy. In the face
of opposition, and in spite of accusations that she was acting outside
the spirit of the constitution, she appointed a right-wing minority
government. Her actions aroused hostility among the socialists, who
had been advocating the abolition of the monarchy since 1907. On the
day following the German armistice in 1918, the socialists accused the
Grand Duchess of having had a pro-German stance, stemming from her
reception of Emperor Wilhelm II in 1914. In January 1919, opposition
to the Grand Duchess lead to revolutionary protests, and she was
persuaded that she would have to abdicate in order to preserve the
monarchy. Her abdication took place on 9 January 1919 and she was
succeeded by her sister, Princess Charlotte. Marie-Adelaide became a
nun, joining the Carmelite Order in Modena, Italy. She lived
(1894-1924).

1912-?
Paramount Chief Madam Mabija of Bagbwe (Sierra Leone)

She
was the younger sister of chieftainess Kanda and elected as her
successor.

1912-37 Politically Influential Safiya Zaghlul in Egypt

One of the most powerful women of
her period as the wife of the national leader Saad Zaghlul. During his
exiles, she took his mantle of leadership and she was his confidant
and counsellor. Her father Mustafa Fahmy appointed him Minister of
Education in 1906 in 1910 he became Minister of Justice, but two years
later he resigned to lead the opposition in the new Legislative
Assembly and became its Vice-President. After he was exiled to Malta
in 1919, she led a demonstration by more than 500 women, and opened
her house for the Wafd Party, and thereby had the opportunity to play
a greater role in the movement. During the unrest she became known as
"Mother of the Egyptians" (Umm al-Misriyyin). After he was freed, she
travelled with her husband to Paris to a conference about Egypt, but
the international powers did not support the quest for Egypt’s
independence, and in 1921 they returned home. The Wafd continued to
organize resistance to the British and the British-backed government,
and he was soon exiled again, this time in the Seychelles. She joined
her husband in Gibraltar in 1922 and when they returned his party won
the elections and he became Prime Minister. After his death in 1927,
she continued to play an active role in Wafd politics, choosing a new
party leader and guiding him. But after a split in the party in 1937,
she retired from politics and resigned her post as head of the Women's
Wafd. She was still a public figure but from then on she refrained
from involvement in political affairs and refused to take sides in
partisan disputes. She lived (1876-1946).

Known as Akka Sahib or Yamuna Bai, she assumed the regency for stepson
after the death of her husband, H.H. Raja Shrimant Shriram Savant
Bhonsle, Bahadur, Sir Desai of Savantwadi (1871-1913). She was born as
H.H. Shrimant Akhand of Akalkot as daughter of Meherban Shrimant
Shahaji III Raje Maloji II Raje [Baba Sahib] Bhonsle, Raja of Akalkot.
(b. 1887-?).

Until 1913 Rebellion Leader Muhumusa in Uganda

A healer who lead the women-centered popular movement in the front of
the resistance against European settlers who were attempting to
overrule Africans. The so-called Nyabinghi movement. She organized
armed resistance against German colonialists and was detained in
Uganda in 1913 by the British. The movement was eventually subdued as
women's powers were crushed by the authorities.

Acting
in place of her husband Ernst August (1887-1913-18-53), the son of the
exiled king of Hannover, Ernst August, Duke of Cumberland and Thyra of
Denmark. Her husband was given the title of duke of Braunschweig by
her father, Emperor Wilhelm III.
After the death of her husband she feuded with her children, Ernst
August, Queen Frederika of Greece and two others, over the inheritance
and other financial matters and even took them to court. She
lived (1892-1980).

1914-27 Politically influential Queen Marie of Edinburgh of
Romania

Unofficial adviser to her husband,
king Ferdinand until his death in 1927. After the First World War he
asked her undertake an unofficial mission to Paris and London in order
to mend the damage done by Prime Minister Bratianu, who lost his
temper during the post war negotiations and she took residence, with
her two daughters ,in the Hotel Crillon, in Place de la Concorde. Her
son, Carol II isolated her and she took little part in the public life
from 1927 to her death. She was the daughter of Prince Alfred Duke of
Edinburgh, Queen Victoria's second son and Grand Duchess Marie
Alexandrovna of Russia, mother of 6 children, and lived (1875-1938).

1914-32 In charge of the Financial AffairsParukutty Nethyar
Amma of Cochin (India)

Her husband, Maharaja Rama Varma (Madrassil
Theepetta Thampuran), who reigned from 1914-32, was a scholar and had
other interests, and she therefore took over the finances of the
state. Under her guidance salaries were quadrupled and the revenue
earned a 17 gun salute. She was awarded the Kaiser-i-Hind medal by
King George V in 1919 for public work. She was a close associate of
Mahatma Gandhi and other Indian nationalists. As one British
Intelligence report stated "The hill palace is the centre of
nationalist activity and charkhas have been introduced to assist the
weaving of khadi."

Until 1915 Princess Regnant Andi Pancaetana of Enrekang
(Indonesia)

The first known ruler of the Bugis
state was Takkebuku. Two other women rulers were Kota and her
daughter, Bissu Tonang, but it is not known when they reigned.

The Tsarina was de-facto in charge of
the government business during her husband, Zar/Emperor Nicolai’s time
as commander-in-chief during World War I, but she obtained his
endorsement of her decisions. In 1918 the whole family - including the
four daughters and son were executed during the revolution. She was
born as Princess Alix von Hessen und beim Rhein, mother of 4 daughters
and a son, and lived (1872-1918).

Succeeded her cousin Tinomana Pirangi. She was daughter of Tekao and
grand-daughter of Papehia and Te Vaerua o te Rangi.

1916-30 Negiste
Nagast
Zawditu, Elect of God, Lion of the Tribe of Judah and Queen of
Kings of Ethiopia

Also known as Zawditu. Her father, Menelik II,
died in 1913 and was succeed by Lij Iyasu, the son of her half-sister
Shewa Regga, and she was exiled to the countryside. When he was
removed from power the Council of State and the Ethiopian Orthodox
Church officially appointed her as his successor. After some years,
her husband, Ras Gugsa Welle, was appointed governor of a remote
province to limit the influence of her stepmother - and his aunt -
Dowager Empress Taytu. And Lij Iyasu, who had escaped captivity,
attempted to regain the throne by force, but was not successful. She
was conservative, believing in the preservation of Ethiopian
tradition, and had the strong backing of the church in this belief.
Slowly, however, she began to withdraw from active politics, leaving
more and more power to Ras Tafari Makonnen, who was a modernizer.
Under his direction, Ethiopia entered the League of Nations, and
abolished slavery. She busied herself with religious activities, such
as the construction of a number of significant churches. After an
uprising against his reforms in 1928, she granted him the title of
Regent and the additional title of Negus. In 1930, her husband led a
rebellion against Negist Tafari, but was killed in battle. Shortly
after she died and was succeeded by Tafari, who took the name Haile
Selassie I. She was originally named Askala Mariam, and had by her
second husband she had a daughter who lived (1891-95) and by her third
another who died at birth in 1906. Married 4 times, she died of
diabetes after having lived (1876-1930).

1916-18 Chieftainess and President
of the Council Isabelle
Vahine-tua-vira Shaw of Arue (French Polynesia)

Also known as Princesse Joinville, she was daughter of Chiefess
Teri'itere Ito-Orai of the Grand Clan Teva, which was the most
important in the Kingdom, and the English Jew Salmon Shaw, a
well-known mariner of the South Pacific. She was married to Prince
H.R.H. Prince Joinville Teri'i-tuariva, Chief of Hita'a, the youngest
son of Queen Pomare IV. Mother of Prince Teri'i Hinoi-a-tua Pomare
(1869-1916) She lived (circa 1850-1918).

1917-44
11th Asantehemaa
Kwaadu Yaadom II of Asante (Ghana)

Elected Queen
Mother after the death of her mother, Yaa Akyaa.
In the period 1900-35 there was no Asantehene or king of the Asante. From
1926-35 the kingdom was ruled by chiefs with the title of
Kumasehene. The last of those,
Otumfuo Nana Osei
Agyeman Prempeh II, began his
reign in 1931, became Asantehene
in 1935, and ruled until 1970.
Konadu Yaadom II was followed on
the post by her cousin, Nana Ama
Sewas Nyaako, who was in office until 1977.

1917-18 Head of the Government Evheniya Bohdanivna Bosch,
Ukraine (17.12-09.03)

Евгения Богдановна Бош,
Yevgeniya Bogdanovna Bosh, or Yevheniya Bohdanivna Bosh was People's
Commissioner of, and it was regulated by a number of documents that
the holder of this office was the Acting Head of the Executive Power.
She had been a socialist activist from 1890's, Head of the Kyiv
Committee of the Russian Social Democratic Worker’s Party (RSDRP)
1911-12 until she was imprisoned and a deprived of civil rights and
exiled to Siberia for life. After the revolution she became Secretary
of Regional Committee of RSDRP(B). She resigned from the government in
protest to the Brest-Litovsk Peace, according to which
Soviet Russia occupied Ukraine. Afterwards she worked on different
party and Soviet posts outside Ukraine. When the pain of her disease
became unbearable, she committed suicide. She was of German-Jewish
origin, and she originally named Gotlibovna Maysh, and lived
(1879-1925).

The congress was held in Petrograd
on the initiative of the Moscow Co-operative Congress as a meeting
of representatives from various peasant organisations and the Soviets
of Peasants' Deputies. Though it was not fully recognised by the
Bohshevik government, the Congress was attended by delegates from 27
gubernias, from the army and from the Central and Petrograd Regional
Committees of the Peasant Union and devoted itself to making
preparations of the upcoming All-Russian Congress of Peasants'
Deputies. She was one of the most prominent leaders of the Russian
revolution. A member of the Socialist Revolutionary Party, she was a
charismatic speaker who spent the summer months in 1917 propagandizing
among crowds in both cities and the countryside. She was in the
forefront in advocating power to the Soviets - the councils of
workers, soldiers and peasants. When the SR Party split, she became
the leader of the New Left Socialist Revolutionary Party. She occupied
leadership positions in the important revolutionary bodies and was
involved in their decision-making processes among others as Mayor of
Chita in 1917 and as Leader of the New Left Socialist Revolutionary
Party 1917-20. She had been involved in terrorism in 1906 and 1918. In
1918 she was candidate for the post of Chairman of The Constituent
Assembly, which was abolished after one day in session. 1919 she was
arrested after having lead and anti-Bohshevik rising and spent the
rest of her life in Sibiria, where she was shot. She lived
(1885-1941).

1917-? Head of the Royal House Princess Ranavalona IV of
Madagascar

May possibly have been Head of the
Royal House after the death of Queen Ranavalona III. She was daughter
of the Queen's older sister, Princess Rasendranoro (1853-1901) who
accompanied her into exile together with her daughter Princess
Razafinandriamanitra, "Enfant du Bon Dieu", also known as Crown
Princess Marie Louise, who lived (1897-1948). Some sources describe
her as daughter of Henri Razafinkarefo, who was probably
Rasendranoro's son and married to Jennie Marie Waller, daughter of the
American consul.

Generally known as Queen
Salote Tupou III, she was absolute ruler and President of the Privy
Council, the 21. Tu’i Kano’kupolu and 1923-65 Head of the Free
Wesleyan Church of Tonga, the National (Methodist) Church. Her
husband, Prince Viliami Tupoulahi
Tungī Mailefihi, was a
member of the nobility and a sideline of the royal family, and held
the office of Premier from 1923, until his death in 1941. She then
appointed her son, the crown prince, as Premier. He succeeded her as
Tauf’ahau Toupu IV (1918-1965-). She
brought Tonga to international attention when she attended the 1953
coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in London, endearing herself to the
British people by riding through the streets in an open carriage,
smiling and waving, in the pouring rain. She was a keen writer and
author of countless dance songs and love poems (hiva kakala) as well
as majestic lakalaka. She served as Chairman of the Tonga Traditions
Committee 1954–1965, patronised the Tonga Red Cross Society. She died
16 December 1965 at Aotea Hospital, Auckland, after a long illness.
She was 191 centimetres tall and mother of 3 sons, and lived
(1900-65).

Also known as Surma Khanum, she practically
became regent after her brother, the Catholics Patriarch of the
Church of the East and leader of the Assyrians Mar Benyamin (Benajmin)
Shimun, was assassinated by a Kurdish rebel
and succeeded by her younger brother, Mar Paulus Shimun XXII. In 1918
she was invited by British authorities to present the Assyrian
question in London and she also attended the Treaty of
Versaille negotiations. The descendants of
the Assyrian Empire had lived as a semi-independent nation in the
Kurdish mountains, but they were massacred and driven out by the
Ottomans in 1915. In return they were promised an independent
homeland by Britain, France, and Russia in 1918 in Northern Iraq
- the Mosul district - but this promise was not fulfilled. Her brother
died of tuberculosis 1920 and was succeeded by his 12 years old
nephew, Mar Ishaia Shimun XXIII, (1908-75) (also assassinated). When
he went to school in England until 1927, she assisted the
Metropolitans Mar Yosip Khnanishoo of Rustaqa in Church affairs and
was in charge of the secular affairs together with her brother,
General David d'Mar Shimun, and father of the Patriarch. Throughout
her nephew's life she continued to act as a consultant, given her
temporal and secular expertise. 1928 she hesitantly accepted an O.E.B.
from the British authorities. At the time of the disturbances in 1933
in Iraq, the Patriarchal family were taken to Cyprus, where they
remained until 1949 when they moved to USA. Because of the Patriarchal
succession from uncle to nephew for more then 650 years, she was the
niece, great niece, etc. to numerous Patriarchs. (d. 1975).

In 1915 she married President Wodrow
Wilson, whose first wife was Ellen Louise Axon (1860-1914). She was a
close confidant in all his decisions, and took part in the
cabinet-meetings. In 1918 her husband suffered a stroke and was
secluded from the public, and she became the de-facto ruler, though
she always insisted she was only acting on his orders. President
Wilson was in office (1912-21) and lived (1856-1924). She lived
(1872-1961).

1919-64 HRH. Charlotte, By the Grace of God Grande Duchesse
of Luxembourg, Duchess of Nassau, Countess-Palatine and
Electress of the Rhine, Countess of Sayn, Hadenburg,
Königstein, Krazenborgen and Dietz, Burgravine of Hammerstein,
Dame of Mahlberg, Wiesbaden, Idstein, Merenberg, Limburg and
Eppstein
1940-44 Leader of the Government-in-Exile from
London (10.05-10.09)

When
her sister, Marie-Adelaide, abdicated, support for the monarchy was at
an all-time low and it was made clear that, if the monarchy were to
survive at all, she would have to remain above political affairs. The
Constitution was amended, limiting the monarch's formal powers. These
acts restored the reputation of the monarchy, and in a referendum on
28.09 1919, 77.8% voted in favour of the monarchy. On 10.05 1940 the
German Army invaded, and she went into exile with her family,
determined to avoid capture by the Germans, and eventually settled in
London, where the
exile-government was already operating. She maintained contact
with her people through regular radio broadcasts on the BBC. The years
following the war were marked by a period of reconstruction, during
which the Grand Duchess
symbolised the solidarity of the Luxembourg people. She made numerous
official visits abroad, promoting her small nation's position on the
international stage. During the 1950s, she sold off many of the
family's properties in Germany, including Biebrich Palace in Wiesbaden
and Hohenburg Castle in Bavaria, reinforcing Luxembourg's position as
the permanent home of the grand-ducal family. In 1961 her son, Jean,
was appointed regent and in 1964 she abdicated in his favour. Married
to Prince Felix de Bourbon-Parma (1893-1970), and mother of six
children. She lived (1896-1985).

1919-29 Politically Influential H.M. Queen Soraya Shah of
Afghanistan

Influenced her husband, King Amanulluh Shah, who was one of the most
liberal rulers of the country. He abolished slavery, liberalized the
family code, child marriage was limited; women got right to choose
their own husband, etc. In 1928 Soraya and her daughters appeared
unveiled. Conservative forces forced her husband to abdicate in 1929,
and they went into exile first in India and then in Rome. She was his
third husband, he married two more times, and lived (1892-1960) She
was the daughter of Mahmud Beg Tarzi, sometime Minister for
Foreign Affairs, and lived (1897-1968).

After the devastating influenza
epidemic of 1918, she gathered up 100 orphaned children and founded
the community at Ngàruawahia now known as Tùrangawaewae. KingKoroki
V was a reluctant leader, and she
provided the strength that
drove the tribe forward. Raising money to buy back confiscated land
she rebuilt Turangawaewae marae as a central bastion at Ngaruawahia.
She ensured that every member marae held their poukai gatherings each
year to maintain the solidarity needed to keep the fires of hope
burning that one day justice would return the Raupatu lands.
She had no offspring with her husband,
Rewi Tumoko Katipa,
but she adopted many children, and she groomed her grandniece, the
Maori Queen Te Ata from 1966-2006. The
daughter of Tahuna Herangi and Princess Tiahuia, and grand-daughter of
King Tawhiao, she
was made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 1937, and lived
(1884 - 1952).

1920 Regent H.M. Dowager Queen Olga of Greece (18.11-11.12)

Born HIH Grand Duchess Olga Konstantinovna Romanova of Russia, she was
acting head of state after her grandson Alexander I (1917-20) had
died after a monkey bite, until her son, Contantinos I, returned to
take over the throne a second time - he reigned (1913-17) and
(1920-22). She lived (1851-1926).

Early
1900sReiging Okinka Idiana Ibop of the
Island of Kanabak (Roxa)
(Guinea Bissau)

Elected queen in succession to her husband and
tenaciously fought the Portuguese until the mid 1920s.

Managing owner together with her
brother, Alexander Hutchinson Jennings from 1891, and was married to
the Britton, Irving H. Carruthers, who had been named executor and
trustee, and they lived in American Samoa. The 3.25 square kilometre
ring of land surrounding a brackish lagoon never recognized by the
international community, that behaved as an independent state until
1925, when annexed by the USA. Culturally and geographically it
belongs to the Tokelau Islands, but today it is part of American
Samoa, and is still owned by the Jennings family.
She lived (1897-1923).

Handled the affairs of her nephew and Miguelist claimant to the
Portuguese throne, Duarte Nuno, Duke of Braganza (1907-76) after her
brother, Miguel, renounced his claim to the throne. At the beginning
of her regency in 1920, she was created 7th Duchess of Guimarães. The
following year she authored a manifesto outlining the House of
Braganza's goals for the restoration of the Portuguese monarchy and
1922 she signed an accord with her relative,
ex-King Manoel II of Portugal in Paris.
She was the second wife of Enrico de Parma, Comte de Bondi (1851-1905)
who had no children, and lived (1858-1946).

Her husband, King Nikola
Petrović-Njegos (1860-1921), was forced into exile after the Serbian
occupation in 1918. After his death their son, Danilo, proclaimed
himself king, but he abdicated after one week in favour of his nephew,
and she took over the regency for grandson King Michael (1908-86) also
after the Serbian annexation. Mother of 12 children, she lived
(1847-1923).

1921-31 Rani Ayisha Adi-Raja Bibi of Cannanore (India)

Succeeded the Maharaja Ahmad Adi-Raja and was succeeded by
Abdul-Rahman Ali Adi-Raja II.

1921-? Regent Dowager RaniSaida of Badalpur (India)

Reigned
in the name of her grandson who studied in United Kingdom.

1921-1939 Al-Sitt Nazira Jumblatt of the Druze of Lebanon

Her husband, Fouad Jumblatt was
murdered by Shakib Wahab, a member of the Arslan clan. Her son Kamal
Jumblatt was four years old, and grew up in an atmosphere of tight
security and fear due to his mother Nazira's continued support of the
Lebanese state and its French patrons. When the Druze in Syria
revolted against the French in 1925, Nazira played a key role in
keeping the Shouf mostly out of war and worked tirelessly to find
common ground among the French authorities, the Maronites and the
Druze. Her son studied in France until 1939, and later became one of
the chief acteurs in the civil war from the 1970s onward until his
assassination.

1921-? Te Ora Aitu (Cook Islands)

Her father, Eturoa Taopua, died and his rangatira title and his
land-rights passed to her. He had succeeded through the rights of his
mother Te Upoko and her mother Teioata, but her female ancestors did
not hold the title.

From 1921 Pirate Commander Honcho Lo, China

Supporter of the Chinese revolution
and took over command on husband's death in 1921. She united her 64
junks with the 50 ship fleet of another female pirate leader, Wong.

1921-23 Politically Influential Gertrude Bell in Mesopotamia
(Iraq)

Travelled
all her life after her first trip to Persia in 1888. She visited
Switzerland, Turkey, Mesopotamia, and rode side-saddle across the
Arabian Desert. She learned Persian and Arabic and how to ride camels,
but despite her love of adventure she was politically conservative and
joined the Anti Suffrage League. She was the only woman drafted as an
intelligence agent and became Oriental Secretary to the High
Commission in Basra. When Winston Churchill became Colonial Secretary
in 1921 she was among the 40 experts assembled in Egypt in a
conference to determine the future of Mesopotamia. She was asked to
draw up the borders of the new nation of Iraq and helped choose its
first ruler, Prince Faisal. For years she was one of Churchill's
closest personal and political advisers, a position that earned her
the title of "Uncrowned Queen of Iraq". As her political role in Iraq
declined with the new regime in power, she returned to her first love
- archaeology. In 1923 she became Honorary Director of Antiquities in
Iraq and established the Baghdad Museum. She lived (1868-1926).

1921-24 (†) Politically Influential First Lady Florence Kling
Harding in United States of America

Unlike other of the early First Ladies, her own career helped to
establish her husband, Warren Harding (1865-1923)'s success as a
politician. She became the driving force behind the growth and
establishment of his newspaper, The Marion Star, as one of the leading
papers in Ohio. Despite convention, her husband always stressed the
influential role his wife had in his career and his deep respect due
to her guidance. Due to her influence over appointments, the Veterans
Bureau was born under the direction of Charles Forbes. Forbes
eventually showed himself to be a criminal, convicted for collusion
and profiteering. They visited Alaska and Canada, when her husband
died on 2 August 1923 on the way back to Washington. She lived (1860-1924).

1922-32 (†)
Regent and President of the State Council
Dowager Maharani Siniti Devi of Cooch Behar (India)

1922-32 Member of the State Council
1932-36 Regent and President of the State Council Dowager
Maharani Indira Devi Sahiba of Cooch Behar (India)

After her husband's death, the Viceroy Lord Reading consulted the
British-Indian government of Bengal and the state government of Cooch
Behar to appoint a regent and a council for the minority of her son,
Maharaja Jagaddipendra Narayan (1915-22-47-70) and he asked her to
serve as regent. Her administrative skills were deemed by observers
very middling indeed, but she was socially active and spend long time
in England after her son came of age. Born as a Princess of Baroda,
she had broken off her engagement to the Maharaja of Gwalior to marry
Jitendra, the younger brother of the Maharaja of Cooch Behar, who
succeeded to the throne just after their marriage. She was daughter of
Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of Baroda (1863-1939) and Maharani
Chimnabai II (1871-1958), an advocate of women's rights. The mother of
5 children, she lived (1892-1968).

1922-36 Rani Profulla Kumari Devi of Bastar (India)

Succeeded Rudra Pratab Deo, who had been raja for about a year, and
was succeeded by Dravir Chandra Deo, who got the title of Maharaja.
She lived (1910-36).

1922-33 Regent H.H. Nawab
Kulsum
Begum Sahiba
of Janjira (India)

Also known as Lady Kulsum Sidi Ahmadkhan, she
was regent for her son, Nawab Sidi
Muhammad Khan Sidi Ahmad Khan (1914-22-72), who was the ruler of the
Sunni dynasty of Abyssinian origin, who had moved to the Island of
Janjira (Jhuzira or Zizera), where they
were appointed Captains and later Governors of the Island. The form of
government was a sort of aristocratic republic, with an established
order of succession until Emperor Aurangzeb conferred the title of
Nawab to the ruler in 1671.
They were notorious pirates for many years until
1733. Born as Kulsum Bibi Sahiba and lived (1897-1959).

1922-40 Adatuwang I Ba Eda of Sawito (Indonesia)

Also known as, La Baeda, she succeeded her father, Andi Tamma, and was
married to Adatuang La Sadapotto of Sidenreng (1904-05). Her sister
was Arung La Bode of Alitta, and she was succeeded by daughter, Andi
Tenri.

Prominent in tribal affairs for much of her life. In 1922 she was
appointed principal chief by President Warren G. Harding in order to
facilitate the closing of the tribal land affairs. Although she was
not the first woman to be chief of an Indian tribe, she was the first
woman to head the Seminole Nation. There was some controversy over the
appointment, but eventually she was accepted by both her own people
and outsiders. Although she was appointed, and not elected in the
Seminole tradition, she was well thought of and well respected and the
people were happy with having her as Chief. The tribal land affairs,
which she had been appointed to resolve, became a source of contention
between Alice and the government. A survey conducted in 1910 had
shifted the old boundaries between the Creek and Seminole Nations, and
the new boundaries transferred several important parcels of land to
the Creeks, and she refused to sign the deeds transferring them to the
Creek Nation or the federal government, on the grounds that it was
morally wrong for her to pass a most valuable tract of land out of the
hands of the destitute Seminole people. Alice continued to serve the
Seminoles as chief until her death on June 21, 1935. She received many
posthumous awards recognizing her achievements. She lived (1852-1935).

1922-30/33 Acting Head-in-exile of the Sovereign Family Dowager
Empress Zita de Bourbon Parma
of Austria-Hungary

Her husband, Emperor Karl was Austrian
head of state 1916-18 and nominal head of State in Hungary till his
death in 1922. She acted as head of the family as regent for her son,
Archduke Otto (b. 1912-), the oldest of 8 children. Otto has later
relinquished all claims of the Austrian-Hungarian throne and was
Member of the European Parliament for Germany as Dr. Otto Habsburg.
Zita was the 17th of 24 children of Duke Carlos III of Parma-Piacenza.
Her younger brother, Felix (1893-1970), was married to Grand Duchess
Charlotte of Luxembourg. Zita lived (1892-1989).

After her husband, Captain Meherban Shrimant Fatehsingh III Shahaji
Raje Sahib Bhonsle, Raja of Akkalkot (1894-96-1923), was killed by
accidental poisoning at the Sassoon Hospital; she took over the
regency for their son Meherban Shrimant Vijayasinhrao Fatehsinhrao
Raje Sahib Bhosle, Raja of Akalkot (1915-23-47-52), who was succeeded
by his younger brother, Meherban Shrimant
Jaysinhrao Raje Fatehsinhrao Raje Saheb Bhosle, who was and again
succeeded as Head of the Royal House of Akkalkot by his oldest
daughter Shrimant Rani Sumitrabai Raje Bhonsle in 1965. Rani Shrimant Tara Bai Raje Sahib
was daughter of Meherban Shrimant Sir Pirajirao Bapu Saheb Ghatge,
Chief of Kagal Senior, was also known as
Aie Saheb Maharaj, and
lived (1899-1942).

Terito Succeeded her mother as Pa Ariki, one of the two titles of the
Takitumu Tribe. In her first marriage she had 3 sons and 6
daughters. After she divorced her husband, she married Sir Tom Davis
(1917-2007) in 1979, the Premier of the Cook Islands, (1978-83,
1983-87) but refused to act as "first lady", was was President of
the House of Arikis 1980-90 and openly critizised his politcal
decisions. She was a prominent member of the Baha'i Faith, was
succeeded by her oldest daughter, Marie Peyroux, and lived
(1923-90).

From 1923 Ratu Donna Maria da Costa of Djeniloe (Indonesia)

Daughter of Petronella da Costa, who
ruled (1879-99) and after her brother, Raja Josef da Costa, died, she
started to behave as ruler of the territory even though it had been
merged into a larger federation ruled by Raja Josef, and although the
Dutch already appointed a Fettor Bone Rea, a sub-raja). Twice she was
asked to leave, although as real ruling ruler she had not much
influence, but her presence in Djeniloe as nominal-Ratu was a bit a
disturbance. The first time she refused totally to go. Later she would
be more indulgent. She and her sister and brothers were of the then
very rare Dasi Raan nobility - only children from children of
children from royal blooded people along the line.

After Kgosi Seepapitso I
(1884-1916) was assassinated by his brother Moepitso. Known as the one-eyed
queen, she was the double matriarch of BaNgwaketse and BaKgatla ba ga Mmanaana
royal houses. The daughter of the BaKwena chief, Sechele I by his wife
Mokgokong, she was first married Pilane, the BaKgatla chief until she eloped
with Bathoen I and later married him. She took over power in 1924 to save the
BaNgwaketse bogosi from disintegration and chaos caused by incompetence and
early deaths of two of the regents of her grandson, Bathoen II (1908-16-69). She
publicly denounced the the last regent of incompetence and financial
mismanagement of the tribal treasury at a kgotla meeting, and she assumed power,
as Bathoen II’s regent. Before she died of cancer she nominated her daughter,
Ntebogang as regent and successor,
and lived (1848-1924).

Ruled at various times during the minority of her
nephew, Bathoen II. She has been described as one of the few female
members of an elite group of progressive-minded Batswana royals. It is
said that she feared no one and was determined to keep BaNgwaketse
bogosi intact until its rightful heir was appointed. She brought
stability to the tribe after years of political intrigue and
incompetence of the other regents made worse by the death of her
mother, Kgosigadi Gaogangwe. She installed discipline, respect for
tradition and during her reign many projects such as the building of
schools, dams and medical establishments were carried out
successfully. As a convert to the Seventh-day Adventist Church and to
the benefit of the people, she allowed the church to establish a
hospital and a number of clinics in the chiefdom. Outside her chiefdom
she was influential in other ways too. Later the first woman to sit in
the Native Advisory Council and was according to records, one of its
outspoken members. She lived (1882-1975).

Reigned in the name of her son Maharaja Georges Jivaye Rao Scindia
(1916-25-61) after the death of her husband, Maharaja Sir Madho Rao
Scindia Bahadur (1876-86-1925). Maharani Chinku was also
Colonel-in-Chief 2nd 'Ali Jah' Gwalior Lancers. (d. 1931).

1925-46 Ranrang Toewa Andi Ninong of Wajo (Indonesia)

Married
to Andi Malingkaang of Gowa, whose sister was I Batari Toja of Barru.
Andi Ninong. She was deposed by Dutch in 1946 and her husband was
executed by Dutch forces after WW II. Her youngest daughter, Andi
Muddariyah, was regarded in the modern time as Royal symbol in Wajo,
or nominal-Queen, with the honorary name and title Petta (Princess)
Ballasari because she was one of the two persons of purest royal
Buginese blood. Probably dead sometime after 1986. Andi Ninong was (b.
1904-?).

The center of the chiefdom
was the town of Blama Massaquoi, Pujehun District, Southern Province.
1968 she was designated a Member of the British Empire by Queen
Elizabeth II and she lived (circa 1871-1971)

1925-1949 Head of the Sovereign Family Princess Maria Josepha
Sophia de Iturbide of Mexico (Titular Empress)

Inherited the claim to the throne from her uncle, who was grandnephew
of Don Augustin de Iturbide, Emperor of Mexico 1821-23, and was
adopted by Emperor Maximillian, thereby inheriting the Habsburg claim
on the throne. Maria Josepha was a very traditional Lady, and a devout
Roman Catholic, and stayed as far away from politics as she could.
After World War II the Princess and her husband were imprisoned in
Romania by the invading communist government as "class enemies". The
couple died shortly thereafter under mysterious circumstances. Upon
her death, according to her will and the agreement of her two
daughters, the leadership of the Mexican Imperial Family passed to her
grandson, Count Maximiliano Gustav Albrecht Richard Agustin von
Goetzen Iturbide, who had been born in Hungary in 1944.Maria Josepha
lived (1872-1949).

Superintendent, Court of Wards and
Controller of the Household in 1912-1913 and later she acted as regent
for her adopted son, her nephew. She was born as Hansa Bai Raje Sahiba
of Savantwadi, was appointed Dame Commander of the British Empire,
DBE, and lived (1890-1931).

1926-27 RegentDatuk I Pateka Tana of Tanette
(Indonesia)

After the death of the female ruler, Datuk I Pancaitana, she was for
one year until Andi Basso became regent.

1926-41 and 1958-71 Queen Kanuni I of Uukwangali (Namibia)

Uukwangali is the name of a kingdom and of one of the tribes of
Namibia. She was forced by the native commissioner in the Kavango,
Eedes, into exile in Angola, and she was succeeded by king Sivute, who
ruled until 1958 when she returned and ruled until 1971. (d 1978).

Around 1926 Chief Ng’endo of Nkokolo (Tanzania)

It is not known precisely when she
succeeded her aunt, Muyelaansime, but she is known to have been ruling
in 1926. She was succeeded by son, Kasivilo, who in 1934 was succeeded
by her brother’s daughter, Sala.

1926-57 Titular Head of the Royal Family Princess Bamba Sophia
Jingan (Maharani Duleep Singh) of Punjab (India)

Daughter of the last Maharajadhuraja
Duleep Singh Bahadur (1843-93) and (self-proclaimed?) successor of her
brother as titular head. Married to an Englishman and also known as
Princess Bamba Sutherland. She lived (1869-1957).

1927-74 Dame Sibyl Mary Beaumont Hathaway of Sark (Channel
Island)

Also known as La Dame du Serq, she succeeded her father William
Collings as the 21st
Seigneur
of the Sark. Her second husband, Robert Hathaway (1888-1954) became
Seigneur in the right of his wife in accordance with the ancient
custom, but Sibyl remained firmly in charge. She was also President
and member of a number of committees of the Chief Pleas. She appointed
her youngest daughter Jehanne Bell as Deputy Seigneur 1946-68. She was
knighted by Queen Elizabeth and granted the title Dame Commander of
the Order of the British Empire. Sibyl outlived all but two children
and was succeeded by her grandson. She lived (1884-1974).

Her principality was independent
until 1947 when it became part of the Republic of India. A recipient
of the Kaiser-I-Hind-order, she was known as "Mai Sahib", and lived
(1901-69).

1927-30 Regent Princess Motshabi of bamaNgwato (Botswana)

Ruled after the death her brother, Sekgoma II.

1927-29 Regent Princess Mariangela Bertoleoni of Tavolara
(Italy)

Took up the government at the request of her nephew King Paolo during
his absence from the Kingdom at the Island of Tavolara. At the time of
her death it was reported that Italy was to take over, but her nephew
returned and ruled until his death in 1962. She was daughter of king
Paolo I and Queen Pasqua Favale, who was regent 1882-86, and lived
(1841-1934).

1927-75 Partner in Power First Lady Soong Mayling in China and
Taiwan

Known in the west as Madame Chiang Kai-shek, she became famous during
the Chinese Nationalists' battle against the Japanese and the Chinese
Communists. Madame Chiang took on the role of a diplomat and
spokesperson for the Republic of China on Taiwan. In the 1930s, she
headed the Chinese air force and made many campaigns to engage U.S.
support for the Nationalists. Her husband, General Chiang Kai-shek,
was President of mainland nationalist China 1927-49, and of Taiwan
until his death in 1975. Mayling' sister Song Qingling, vice-premier
and vice-President and acting head of state of Communist China. After
her husband's death, Mayling moved to New York. She lived (1897-2003).

After her ex-husband, King Carol had abdicated, her brother-in-law
Prince Nicolaus became regent for her minor son, King Michael, and she
was given the title of Queen Mother. In 1930-40 Carol was king again,
until Michael was reinstated as king, and she was his chief advisor
until he was forced to abdicate by the communists in 1947 and went
into exile in Switzerland. The mother of one son, she lived
(1896-1982).

1928-29 and 1936 Counsellor of State HM Queen Mary of Teck
of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland

One of 6 Counselors of State
appointed during the illness of her husband, King Georges V of the
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, Emperor of India,
Defender of Faith, at the 4th of December 1928. It is not clear for
how long, but the king was ill until the summer of 1929, the soon
experienced a backlash until sometime in the beginning of 1930. Mary
was born as Princess of Teck and lived (1867-1953).

1928-43-? Chief Mali II of Khaha (South Africa)

Initially she was installed as chief after her father's death, but as
she refused to give up her husband (as Mali I did), she resigned and
instead acted as regent for minor brother.

1929-62 Chief Mugalula II of Kiwele (Tanzania)

Daughter of Msavila and succeeded brother. In 1962 the new government
abolished the chiefly system.

1929-39 Pirate Commander Lai Choi San, China

Her name is also transcribed Lai Sho
Sz'en. She commanded 12 junks in the South China Sea.

A descendant of Pampa Kanyimpa, who reigned from 1910. Later on there
were other queens, such as Eugenia Andanga, Carlhota Jaquen Guen and
Julia Comenpe. It was always the Baloberras, the women who speaks with
spirits, whose task it was to choose the queen.

1930-62 Politically Influential Menem Asfaw of Ethiopia

Married the regent Ras Tafari in 1911. Early in his reign an army
revolt broke out and he was taken hostage. She commandeered a tank and
drove it herself trough the garrison's gate to free her husband. In
exile during the Italian occupation. After the restoration in 1941 she
was Emperor Hailie Selassie III's closest advisor on all aspects. She
lived (1869-1962).

1930-40 Politically Influential Elena Lupescu in Romania

Dominated her weak lover, King Carol II, who returned from exile and
pushed his son with his ex-wife, Princess Helene and his mother, Queen
Mother Maria, aside. She was very conservative and anti-progressive.
In 1940 Carol was forced to abdicate, in favour of his son, ex-king
Michael. The couple got married in 1947, and he died 6 years later.
She was created Princess von Hohenzollern, and lived (1902-77).

1931 Reigning Umugabekazi Nyiaranauugo III Kankazi of Burundi

Became Umugabekazi (Queen Mother)
(12.11-16.11) after the death of her husband. Burundi was a Belgian
colony at the time.

1931-36 President of the Council of Regency H.H. Shrimant
Akhand Soubhagyavati Maharani Gajra Bai Raje Sahib Scindia of
Gwalior (India)

Took over as regent for stepson Maharaja Georges Jivaye Rao Scindia
(1916-25-61) after the death of his mother, Maharani Chinku. (d. 1943).

After her mother, Mrs. Highly Calder, died after a dynamite accident,
she inherited her interests in the island group, approximately 250
Kilometres North East of Bougainville, which consists of a circular
reef bearing 13 islets and three sand cays. Frances was married to a
German medical officer, Dr. Bruno Kroening, and in 1931 she was living
at Kieta in Bougainville. During World War II, the Japanese bombed the
coconut groves on the Mortlocks for no apparent reason, but little
damage was done and no one was injured. In 1966 Frances Kroening still
had her interest in the property, and was now working the property in
association with the islanders.

Dagmar Theresia Rasmussen
født Andersen was widow of the polar explorer and anthropologist Knud
Rasmussen, who founded the trade station in 1910 and later his
ownership of the area was conformed by the International Court in the
Hague. She sold it to the Danish State in 1937. Mother of 3 children,
she lived (1882-1965).

1933-45 Politically Influential First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt,
United State of America

In 1921 when a bout with polio left
Franklin Roosevelt crippled, her steadfast encouragement enabled him
to return to politics and win the governorship of New York
(1929-1933). In the process she became his political surrogate,
speaking in his behalf to the citizenry, relaying their feedback to
him, and giving her input as well. As First Lady she was a driving
force in the New Deal and other social reforms. During World War II,
she channelled her energies into the war effort. She did this first by
mustering up civilian volunteerism as assistant director of the Office
of Civilian Defence, and by visiting U.S. troops abroad. After her
husband's death she became a delegate to the United Nations General
Assembly, specializing in humanitarian, social, and cultural issues.
In 1948, she drafted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which
affirmed life, liberty, and equality internationally for all people
regardless of race, creed or colour. Additionally, she helped in the
establishment of the state of Israel and attempted negotiations,
albeit cautiously, with the Soviet Union. She was niece of former
President Theodore Roosevelt, and lived (1884-1962).

1934-43 Guardian Dowager Queen Maria of Romania of Yugoslavia

After her husband, King Alexander, was assassinated in France, his
cousin, Prince Paul was regent for King Peter until 1941 when the
family was forced into exile. She lived (1900-61).

Until 1934 Chief Musonga II of Ipito (Tanzania)

Succeeded father Ivata, she was
deposed and succeeded by sister.

1934-62 Chief Ng’endo of Ipito (Tanzania)

Daughter of Ivata and succeeded sister Musonga II. In 1962 the new
government abolished the chiefly system.

1934-62 Chief Sala of Nkokolo (Tanzania)

Successor of her cousin, the male chief Kasivilo.

1935-59 Mulena
Mukwai Mulima
of Nololo,
Chiefof the Southern Part of Bulozi and
Regent Princess
of Barotseland (Zambia)

Daughter of Yeta III, Litunga of the Lozi and Paramount
Chief of Borotseland until his abdication 1945. She lived(1893-1964).

1935-49 Vice-President of the State Council and President of the
Cabinet Princess Abida Sultan Begum of Bhopal (India)
1960-61 Titular Nawab Sahiba, Begum Sultan of Bhopal

Her full name was Colonel Suraya Jah,
Gauhar-i-Taj, Nawab Abida Sultan Begum Sahiba, but was normally known
as Begum Abida Sultan. She was appointed
as Heir Apparent to her father and recognized as such by the Indian
government in 1928. In 1950 she moved to Pakistan. were she was a
Delegate to UN in 1954, Ambassador to Brazil and Chile 1954-59. She
was also an active politician and supporter of Miss Fatima Jinnah's
candidacy for President of Pakistan. She Contested the succession
after the death of her father, HH Sikander Savlat Ifrikar il-Mulk Haji
Sir Muhammad Hamidullah Khan Badur, in February 1960, but the Indian
government ruled against her in January 1961 in favour of her sister,
H.H. Sikander Saulat Iftikhar ul-Mulk Haji Nawab Mehr Tai Sajida
Sultan Begum Sahiba,
Nawab Begum of Bhopal (1960-95). Aida lived (1913-2002).

The French deposed her because of
her opposition to their rule. In 1943 the French attacked her capital,
she surrendered, was arrested and sent into exile in Timbuktu, where
she died the following year. She lived (circa 1920-44).

Appointed temporary ruler of the statelet after the death of her
husband, Orang Kaya Pieter Maspaitella, but she remained in ofice for
the next 33 years, and lived (19194-88).

1936 Pirate Commander P'en Ch'ih Ch'iko in China

Commanded 100 pirates.

1937-52 Counsellor of State HM Queen Elizabeth of the United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
1953-54 Senior Counsellor of State
1954-2002 Counsellor of State

First
appointed Counsellor of State during the visit abroad of her husband,
King George VI (1895-1936-52) in 1943 and again acted in 1944, 1951,
1953, 1957, 1963 and at least once a year for the rest of her life,
just up to a month before her death. She acted Senior Counsellor of
State during her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip's
world tour. She later acted as Counsellor of State on many occasions
since. Born as Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, she lived (1900-2002).

1937-57
Counsellor of State HRH The Princess Royal, Princess Mary of
the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Countess of
Harewood

Acted as
ruling Counsellor in 1939, 1943, 1944, 1947, 1951, 1951, 1956 and
1957. She was the daughter of George V and married to the 6th Earl of
Harewood, Henry Lascelles. During the visit of King George VI, Queen
Elizabeth, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret to South Africa in
1947, she was appointed as one of the Counsellors of State - joint
regents. She was mother of two sons, and lived (1897-1965).

1937-44 Counsellor of State HRH The Duchess of Fife, Princess
Alexandra Duff of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern
Ireland

Acted
as ruling Counsellor in 1939, 1943, 1944Alexandra Duff,
daughter of Princess Louise, The Princess Royal and 1st. Duke of Fife,
Earl MacDuff and Chief of the Clan of Fife, was created a Princess in
1905 together with her sister, Princess Maud. Alexandra was married to
her cousin HRH The Duke of Connaught, Prince Arthur, former
Governor-General of South Africa. He died in 1942, their son was
killed in 1942 and she was succeeded by her sister's son. She lived (1891-1957).

After the death of her husband, H.H. Raja Shrimant Sir Khem Savant V
Bhonsle Bahadur, she was regent for stepson H.H. Raja Shrimant Shivram
Savant Bhonsle, Also known as Lakshmi Devi, she was born as Princess
of Baroda, and lived (1907-61).

When her husband, Raja
Shrimant Sir Malojirao IV Raje Ghorpade Bahadur (1884-1900-1937),
abdicated she became regent for her son Raja Shrimant Bhairavsinhrao Raje Ghorpade
Bahadur (1929-37-84).
She handed over the government to him on 10 July 1947 and on 15
August he signed the instrument of
accession to the Dominion of India and merged his state with Bombay
the following year. He died in a car crash leaving an only daughter,
Rajkumari Shrimant Menka Raje Ghorpade-Maurya, who is mother of a son,
Vijaysinh Maurya, Director of The Mudhol Land Holdings Co. Pvt. Ltd.

As Vice-Chairperson 1932-37, she
acted jointly as Head of State of the Soviet Socialist Republic
together with Mikhail Ivanovich Us. Also known as Марьям Туганбаева or Mariya Tuganbayeva,
she lived (1907- 86).

Another version of her name is Nadežda Grekova. As Chair of the
Supreme Soviet she was in office as
"Head of the Republic" 25.07-27.07 and was Chair of the Supreme
Soviet until 1947, Member of
the Central Audit Commission of the All-Union Communist Party
1939-52, 1943-46 Deputy chairman of the Council of People's
Commissars of the of the Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic and
1. Deputy Minister of Food Industry of the Russian Socialist
Federative Soviet Republic 1949-52. She lived (1910-2001).

Makea Nui Ariki was the oldest daughter of Makea Nui Tinirau Teremoana
Ariki, and married in 1928 Lieutenant-Colonel Edward Te Whiti Rongomai
Love, a Maori from New Zealand, who became a hero in World War II.
Mother of 4 children: Mokoroa, Inanui, Veia and Myra, and succeeded by
sister, Makea Nui Teremoana Ariki. (d. 1947).

1939 "Possible Throne Candidate" Elena of Montenegro of "The
Kingdom of Croatia"

During World War II, two years before Germany invaded southern
Yugoslavia and Greece (through Bulgaria) in April 1941, Italy was busy
planning, once the war had been won, to restore Montenegro as an
independent kingdom as well as to create a new kingdom of Croatia.
Originally the idea was to make either Prince Michael or Prince Roman,
both member s of the ruling Petrovitch family, into king but neither
accepted, believing that eventually Italy and Germany would be
defeated. Then it was proposed that Queen Elena, wife of King Victor
Emmanuel III of Italy, who had been born a Montenegrin Princess,
should be proclaimed Queen in her own right. This pleased her, but no
one else; and eventually the appointment of one or more native-born
'Regents' was discussed. Born as Elena Petrovitch Niégoch, she lived
(1873-1952).

Served as Pope Pius XII's
housekeeper and secretary from his period as Nuncio to Bavaria in
1917, and especially in the pope's final years, as his health
deteriorated she seems to have in effect controlled the pope, by
deciding who could see him, when they could see him, what documents he
could read and advised him on decisions he should take. Enemies of
called her La Popessa. Her intense dislike of him was credited by
Curia members with causing Pope Pius XII to deny the position of
Cardinal to Archbishop Giovanni Montini, the future Pope Paul VI, so
excluding him from the 1958 papal conclave, where it was suspected
that he would have been a leading candidate to be elected pope. This
decision was overturned by the new pope, John XXIII, who chose Montini
to be the first person he appointed to be a cardinal. Lehnert.
She lived (1894-1983).